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Simple and Healthy Cranberry Apple Crisp

As the seasons change and colder months approach, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm dessert fresh from the oven. One such treat that captures the essence of autumn is the Cranberry Apple Crisp. This dish marries the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples, producing a delightful balance of flavours that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Best of all, this recipe is simple to make and significantly healthier than many traditional dessert options.

Why Choose Cranberry Apple Crisp?

Cranberry Apple Crisp is not just a tasty dessert; it also offers various nutritional benefits. Apples are a great source of fibre and vitamin C, while cranberries pack a punch with their powerful antioxidants. By opting for a crisp instead of a pie, you can reduce added sugars and fats, making it a more wholesome choice. Furthermore, the use of natural sweeteners and whole grains enhances the dish’s health credentials.

Ingredients

For a delightful Cranberry Apple Crisp, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 450g (approximately 4 medium) apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 200g fresh or frozen cranberries
• 50g maple syrup or honey (adjust based on sweetness preference)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Crisp Topping:

• 150g rolled oats
• 100g wholemeal flour
• 50g almonds or walnuts, chopped (optional)
• 50g coconut oil or unsalted butter, melted
• 40g brown sugar or coconut sugar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Prepare the Fruit Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples and cranberries. Add the maple syrup or honey, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss gently until the fruit is well-coated. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

3. Make the Crisp Topping: In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, wholemeal flour, chopped nuts (if using), melted coconut oil, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be crumbly.

4. Assemble the Crisp: Sprinkle the crisp topping over the fruit filling, covering it evenly. This topping will caramelise beautifully as it bakes, creating a crunchy texture that complements the soft fruit underneath.

5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.

6. Serve: Let the Cranberry Apple Crisp cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a dollop of Greek yoghurt or a scoop of low-fat ice cream for a special treat.

Tips for the Perfect Crisp

• Apple Variety: Choose a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavour. Good options include Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
• Sugar Alternatives: If you prefer a sugar-free option, consider using natural sweeteners such as stevia or erythritol.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh cranberries on top before serving can add a beautiful touch.

Conclusion

This Simple and Healthy Cranberry Apple Crisp is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying and nutritious. It’s a fantastic dessert to share with family and friends during the chilly evenings of autumn. With its wholesome ingredients and delightful flavours, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. So why not embrace the season and whip up this delightful treat today? Enjoy!